Safari tips 101

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Copyright © 2009 – http://www.africafreak.com/ - All Rights Reserved. 1



WARNING: This eBook is for your personal use only. You may NOT Sell This Intellectual Property In Any Way!

All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2009 – Michaël Theys. All rights are reserved. You may

not sell it, or reprint any part of it without written consent from the author, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in a review.



Table of Contents

Contents About Safari Tips 101 ................................................................................................................................... 5

Who is Michaël Theys? ................................................................................................................................. 6

I. The Basics ............................................................................................................................................. 8

8 Things to Consider For a Safari! .................................................................................................................................. 8

Malaria Advice: Travel Precautions to Take! .......................................................................................................... 15

How to Plan Your Dream African Family Safari Vacation! ................................................................................ 16

How to Choose an African Safari Operator! ............................................................................................................. 18

Where to Travel as First-Time Safari Goers? ........................................................................................................... 21

What to Choose: A Mobile Safari or a Lodge Safari? ............................................................................................ 25

Costs Involved in a Safari - What You Need to Know! .......................................................................................... 28

5 Tips on Finding Hidden Safari Gems! ...................................................................................................................... 32

Words of Advice! ................................................................................................................................................................ 34

II. Photography Tips................................................................................................................................ 37

Shooting the Light! ..................................................................................................................................................................... 37

Inspired and Inventive Wildlife Photography! .............................................................................................................. 40

Anticipate It! ................................................................................................................................................................................. 42

III. Game Walks .................................................................................................................................... 47

What is a Game Walk? .............................................................................................................................................................. 47

Rewinding the Travel Clock: Africa Walking Safaris! ................................................................................................ 49

IV. Self Drive Safaris ............................................................................................................................. 52

V. Horseback Safaris ............................................................................................................................... 57

VI. Voluntourism .................................................................................................................................. 60



VII. Gorilla Safaris.................................................................................................................................. 63

VIII. Authors Area ................................................................................................................................... 67

Sara Brown, The Best of Zambia. ........................................................................................................................................ 67

Kerry de Bruyn, Kerry de Bruyn.com. ............................................................................................................................... 68

Mark Gunn, Ecotraining Instructor. .................................................................................................................................. 69

Sebastian Hermanns, TravelComments. ......................................................................................................................... 70

Anne Huysman, Ontdek Kenya Safaris. ............................................................................................................................ 71

Hakon Kavli, The Africa Travel Blog. ................................................................................................................................ 72

Siobhán Kindness, tion London. .......................................................................................................................................... 73

Johan Knols, Plan Your Safari. ............................................................................................................................................. 74

Michelle Lewis, Acacia Africa. .............................................................................................................................................. 75

Heidi Podjavorsek, African Travel Inc. ............................................................................................................................ 76

Sandy Salle, Hills of Africa. ..................................................................................................................................................... 77

Michaël Theys, Africafreak. ................................................................................................................................................... 78

Gerry van der Walt, Photo-Africa. ...................................................................................................................................... 79



About Safari Tips 101

Jambo rafiki (hello friends),

Karibuni (welcome) to Safari Tips 101 – Tips and tricks for your African

safari! I am both delighted and excited to share this with you! Whether you

are a total safari newbie or someone in love with African nature and its

wonderful safari destinations, I am confident that you will find this resource

extremely useful. The safari tips guide is unique in so many ways:

- It provides valuable information from a very broad perspective, and

focuses on things such as where to go, what to do, what to bring, etc.

- Also has specific sections dedicated to areas like photography, game

walks, voluntourism, gorilla trekking, and so much more! A great tool

to use when planning your holidays.

- It is fantastically illustrated.

- MOST OF ALL, it is a document that offers tips and info from safari

experts: real experts!

Indeed, what you are about to read was put together by a bunch of

incredible characters from various backgrounds and with distinct areas of

expertise within the business.

I would like to take the opportunity to express GRATITUDE to the following

people, as without them I would have never been able to put this together

on my own.

Acknowledgements go to: Sara Brown (The Best of Zambia), Kerry de

Bruyn (Kerry de Bruyn.com), Mark Gunn (Ecotraining), Sebastian Hermanns

(Travel Comments), Anne Huysman (Ontdek Kenya Safaris), Hakon Kavli

(The Africa Travel Blog), Siobhán Kindness (tion London), Johan Knols (Plan

Your Safari), Michelle Lewis (Acacia Africa), Heidi Podjavorsek (African Travel

Inc.), Sandy Salle (Hills of Africa), and Gerry van der Walt (Photo-Africa).

Huge thumbs up to them all!

Want to learn more about them? Visit the Authors Area on page 67.



Who is Michaël Theys?

I am perhaps one of the greatest Africa

enthusiasts on the World Wide Web.

Over the years I‘ve been privileged

enough to live and travel across the

African continent, visiting a multitude of

beautiful and welcoming nations. From

my early childhood in the Democratic

Republic of Congo and Burundi, to Kenya

and Tanzania in East Africa, Zambia, and

ultimately South Africa; I have

experienced magical and enriching

moments in my young (yet already very

fulfilling) life!

Presently I am back in Europe (Belgium, my ―homeland‖), yet all those

precious memories are still deeply anchored in my mind!

Through Africafreak.com, my aim is to share knowledge with the world, and

re-visit some of the highlights of my life so far (and hopefully for many years

to come…)!

I have many goals, one of which is to make sure Africafreak.com becomes

the number one reference in the domains of African safaris, wildlife and

conservation. Some kind of ―National Geographic‖ for Africa! In the

medium term though, I am planning on returning to Africa, and would love

to be able to work in the bush for a while. Just imagine if I could

communicate with you in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by wild animals

and nature. I‘d be the happiest person on Earth…in fact it‘s giving me the

chills just thinking about it!

I know I still have a long way to go, but I am a man with great faith, and I

strongly believe that both faith and perseverance are key ingredients to

success in life! With faith you can aim for the stars, and most definitely

―move mountains‖! As Dr. Martin Luther King puts it: “Take the first step in

faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step.”

Some words to meditate upon… ;)

http://www.africafreak.com/



Please do not hesitate to send me a mail for any questions you may have on

the topic! I am here as your loyal servant!

Enjoy the eBook and welcome once again,

Michaël Theys

Twitter:

twitter.com/Africafreak

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Email:

[email protected]

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I. The Basics

8 Things to Consider For a Safari!

(By Michaël Theys)

African Safaris are a great way to disconnect from stressful city life, away

from work and responsibilities! This year you've decided to make it happen: you're taking your suitcase, a pair of sunglasses and binoculars to explore

some of Africa's best game spotting destinations! GREAT IDEA! Believe me you have made the right choice! If you're looking for unforgettable and

unique moments, relaxing and enriching experiences...just go for it!

Provided below are a few things to consider before enjoying the time of your life. ;-)



1. What are you looking for?

What is it that you are truly looking for? Are you more of an animal freak

(just like me) or a bird enthusiast? What would the purpose of your holiday be? To discover what Mother Nature has to offer, to relax around the pool,

or to benefit from a magnificent sun downer cruise on Lake Kariba? Perhaps a combination of all of the above would suit you best? Pick your wants, be

specific...there are plenty of specialist safaris out there!

Once you're clear on what your desires are, you can then choose the right

destination! This is absolutely essential! Indeed, various locations will have different facilities and distinct things to offer! Some will not necessarily be in

a rich wildlife area but might have other advantages like a stunning location, exciting activities, walking trails, etc.

In other words, do your homework, pick up your bags and jump on a plane! ;)

2. Where to go

Africa is a huge continent with a large array of possibilities destination wise. While it is true that West Africa has quite a few options available, the area I

know best is concentrated in Eastern and Southern Africa, and is renowned

for its abundant wildlife. It is an extraordinary heaven for outdoors adventure - perhaps THE best on Earth!

Here are some of the countries that I definitely recommend if you are in love

with the bush:



Tanzania.

Kenya. South Africa.

Zimbabwe. Zambia.

Botswana. Namibia.

Uganda.

My top 3: Tanzania in first, followed closely by Kenya and South Africa.

3. When to go

The best time of the year for safaris occurs during the dry season months. Indeed, in the rainy season water and food are plentiful, and animals tend to

be more dispersed throughout the parks/game reserves. Also, grass is much longer in some areas, making it more difficult to spot them. In comparison,

in the dry season permanent water holes attract a vast abundance of

wildlife!

For East African countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, ideal times for game viewing include the periods of December to March, and from June to late

September/early October. It is during the latest months of the year that one can experience the Great Annual Wildebeest Migration, where almost two

million animals gather and move together across the plains of the Serengeti and Masai Mara National Parks! I've had the chance to watch it...it's a once

in a lifetime experience...absolutely breathtaking!

In Southern Africa winter months from May to August, and hot spring

months in September and October are most suitable! Temperatures are usually mild during the day, while a little cooler on early mornings and in the

late afternoon.

4. Visa/Vaccinations

Most countries require a single-entry visa. I know that in Kenya it costs about $50. So make sure you visit local embassies, and please do a little

research before leaving your country.

As far as vaccinations are concerned, requirements vary from country to country. If I were you I'd ask a doctor for adequate information. Here's a list

of some of the inoculations that are highly recommended:

Yellow fever



Diphtheria

Typhoid Hepatitis A

Last thing: make sure you ALWAYS have your medical insurance policy to

cover possible (yet very unlikely) emergencies!

5. What to take with you

I don't know about you, but I just LOVE packing up for travel!

Here's my 'take away' list:

A suitcase (ha ha very funny Michaël).

Your passport and certificate of vaccination (oops...almost forgot the plane tickets).

A hat (a Rogue safari hat for the ultimate safari freak), sunscreen lotion and a pair of sunglasses.

Mosquito repellent (essential). In some cases, you may be required to take prescription medicine to prevent malaria (i.e. Malarone or

Lariam). Good binoculars to spot the animals (I recommend 10*50 for best

viewing). A camera of course (100-300 mm lens ideally; 35 mm for portraits,

landscapes, etc.). A few jerseys (yes, even in Africa...early mornings and late evenings

can be chilly, especially in Southern Africa).

A torch to prevent lucky/unlucky encounters at night (or for pee emergencies lol).

Books and Travel Guides. My personal favorites: Signs of the Wild by Clive Walker, The Safari Companion by Richard D. Estes, and Birds of

Southern Africa by Sinclair, Hockey and Tarboton. A Swiss Army Knife (be careful not to carry it in your hand luggage). It

can be very handy in the bush, as a bottle opener or to cut things (hello Mike...that's what knives are made for ).



VERY IMPORTANT: Oh yes, don't forget your "eagle eyes" to spot what

nature has to unveil to you, and your good mood as always! ;) And remember to stay silent...you may annoy or scare the animals away!

6. Choosing your activities

Lodges/camps habitually have three main activities: game drives, walks and

night drives (not everywhere though). Some may also propose sun downer cruises! Drives are 2-3 hours long (depending on the formula)! Early

mornings and late afternoons are best as it is cooler, thus providing better conditions for optimal game viewing. Otherwise, animals tend to rest under

a tree or hide in the thickets, away from the scorching sun! A good nap is usually the plan during that part of the day...or perhaps a plunge in the

swimming pool?! Up to you really...

Game drives: in open jeeps or mini buses with a guide or ranger. Be willing to wake up bright early (around 5:30 am) and make sure you

wear a jersey or take a blanket! My personal favorite is the night drive

formula, where you get to see nocturnal animals such as the elusive leopard, African genets and civets, laughing hyenas, porcupines and

way more!!! It's really a cool experience, especially when they let you use the spotlight to scan through the night, looking for every sign or

movement: a shiny eye, an unusual noise...detective work at its best!

Walks: also very interesting. An armed guide walks you through the

bush to experience another side of nature. Here you get to learn about



animal tracks, droppings, and both the fauna and flora (especially

trees and their values) of the African savanna. While the wildlife experience might not be as productive in terms of animal sightings

(they tend to run away as soon as they see you), the learning experience and birding side of things make it totally worth it! It just

has to be done at least once in your life.

Sun downer cruises. Truly amazing for close encounters with hippos,

crocodiles, or to have the opportunity to view animals that come down by the river to drink. Amazing photo shots to be taken, specifically

with the rich aquatic bird life that thrives around the riverine area!



7. Tell your guide what you're looking for

In most instances, professional guides will ask you what your main interests are before taking you on a drive or walk! If not make sure you tell them

what you're dying to find! Whether you're going for The Big 5, a specific animal or bird species...they'll be more than happy to fulfill your desires!

However, notice that national parks are not zoos - in other words, you never know in advance what you're going to see! In my opinion, it's the exciting

part of safaris! Some days are prolific, while others are more disappointing! But often it is when you least expect it that you're rewarded the most! Never

get discouraged! Have faith and odds will eventually turn in your favor!

8. Where to look for animals

While there are no definite locations for specific animals, it is possible nevertheless to associate them with specific biomes. For instance grazers

live in grasslands, browsers in Miombo woodlands and predators in open savannas. If you're searching for kudu, you're very unlikely going to find

them in open regions. This type of antelope is principally found in bushy

areas where food (mainly leaves) is plentiful for them. Similarly, giraffes love acacia territory, and leopards are more likely to be seen up in a tree or

in rocky areas (koppies).

Got the idea? Wonderful! Now go out there and have lots of fun!



Malaria Advice: Travel Precautions to Take!

(By Sebastian Hermanns)

1. First of all you should check if the area you are going to visit is actual malaria infested. Remember – there are large parts of Africa which are

malaria free!

2. If you are going to visit a malaria infested area consult a doctor or a travel clinic. They will provide you with all kinds of info about the

medication to take. Listen properly to what the doc is telling you and

follow this. Stick to the schedule without forgetting to take your pill(s).

3. Get yourself a mosquito net. They are not uber expensive and usually very light.

4. Get yourself a mosquito repellent once you are there. Ask at a local

pharmacy for their best selling one and you'll get a good one.

5. Mosquito coils are usually doing a good job. They are burning for up to eight hrs. And Mosquitoes hate them. OK, some people don't like the

smell of it, but you should give it a try!

6. Never forget that mosquitoes are attracted to light. Switch off the light when going to bed and keep reading in bed to a minimum as the light of

your torch will also attract those nasty little creatures.

7. Clothing – shorts and shirts are no problem at all during the day, but

during dusk and dawn you should wear long trousers and a jumper/long



sleeve. Mosquitoes are most active during dusk and dawn.

8. You are on safari and not on a big night out, so don't use too much

perfume/after shave. Mosquitoes are more attracted to it than anyone else around you.

9. Stick to the rules, don't forget to take your medication and don't think

that you will not get Malaria just because you just read this list!

Malaria is really nothing to joke around with. It is one of the major killing

diseases in Africa – around 350–500 million cases of malaria occur

worldwide each year, and over one million people die of it. As a visitor to

malaria infested regions you are at risk of getting the disease. The right

precautions will minimize the risk, but it will not give you 100% protection.

Typical symptoms of malaria are:

Fever

Chills Headache

Nausea Vomiting

If you have such symptoms and you are in a malaria area or you have been

to one recently it is very important to see a doctor and to get tested. Malaria

needs to get treated as early as possible to prevent something worse from

happening.

How to Plan Your Dream African Family Safari Vacation!

(By Sandy Salle)

Why do you want to take your family to Africa? Is it because you want your

family to experience a highly-rewarding trip full of rich learning experiences, inspirational cultures, unspoiled wildernesses, and a splendid array of

adventures? If so, planning accordingly is essential. Whether you consider a trip to Africa to be one of the largest investments of your life, an opportunity

to get together as a family, or the trip of a lifetime, you want to spend your time wisely—it‘s not every day you‘re in Africa.

Questions to ask yourself when planning your trip:



What activities does my family enjoy or want to experience?

If you love intimate tours, than Cape Town, South Africa is the place to experience an array of fantastic mountain, township, and bicycle tours. Many

times you need to book tours in advance, so know which ones you want to

experience beforehand. When choosing safari excursions, research the various types including,

vehicle, night-drives, canoeing, horseback riding, and walking safaris—to name a few. Certain countries are better for specific activities than others as

terrain varies greatly from country to country. For example, the Okavango Delta in Botswana is extremely famous for its wild-game viewing, and South

Luangwa, Zambia provides some of the most exceptional walking safaris in all of Africa. Know the activities you want to do and find the best countries

to fit your needs.

If you love the beach, than you may want to visit Mozambique or the Garden Route—these areas also offer fantastic tours and safaris.

What are my hobbies, interests, passions?

For example, if you have a particular interest in wine than you would want to

look into Cape Winelands for a variety of wine tasting tours. No matter your passion—whether you love cooking, the ocean, birding, hiking, or learning

about cultures and history—you can experience it in Africa with the right planning.



What type of accommodation am I looking for?

Africa is famous for its variety of accommodations, some highly authentic and rugged, others more westernized. If you enjoy being close to nature you

may want to consider a luxury tented camp or mobile camp. If you‘re

looking for more of the traditional villa or five-star hotel there are many to choose from.

Overall, the best advice for planning the perfect trip to Africa is to do your

research. Many times an individual may have a false misconception about a certain activity or a country based on stereotypes, and therefore misses out

on the greatest things Africa has to offer. Do your research!

How to Choose an African Safari Operator!

(By Anne Huysman)

Booking an African safari was fairly straight forward in the days when African

travel was controlled by a few wholesale travel agents and a selected

number of ground operators in Africa.

With the internet you now have 1000s of African safari operators with wide

range of prices but the responsibility of vetting which operator to book with



rests on you, and should you fail to do so due to a lack of diligence, you

suffer the consequences.

A website may promise you the best African safari but this does not

guarantee credibility. It would be a stretch of faith if you booked a safari

sorely on the looks of the website as anyone can set up one on a copy and

paste basis.

Don't take comfort that if things go wrong you can seek legal recourse, the

truth is you will never get a fair compensation for the time lost and emotions

ruined.

Though your safari will possibly last 10-13 days, its effect is going to be long

term. Therefore do your research as you would do for other long term issues

such as buying a house or choosing your child's school. Ask all relevant

questions before putting down a deposit.

Here is a guideline on how to get your safari operator.

1) Know the real people in the organization. "About Us" is too vague.

Assuming the operator is a local company, why should he not reveal his

identity?

2) Research as though money is not a problem. This widens the pool of the

operators whose resumes you'd want to consider and you avoid being



locked-up with operators with doubtful reputations. Then narrow down the

candidates to suit your budget.

3) Check how long the safari operator has been in operation - this will help

you avoid the here-today-gone-tomorrow operators. There is no rule that

the new operators are doubtful but you must certainly see that you don't

become the company's experimental client.

4) Does the safari operator have the expertise for your specific needs? If he

can't directly supply your need, this should be a red flag.

5) What do the travel reviews say about him? Trust the grapevine - if the

operator is up to scratch you will hear it online. However, be watchful for

out-dated and self-authored trip reports and unverifiable client comments. If

possible call a past client as this is a more foolproof way than an email.

6) Membership in fee-paying tourism associations. While these bodies have

noble ideas, there is a very good reason why they put a disclaimer in their

members list. Read and respect the disclaimer. Don't let your guard down

just because operator appears in every fee-paying body.

7) Finally surprise the safari operator with a phone call. Switch on your

detective radar, listen carefully between his words and try to match them

with info in his web site and from emails. By the time you put the phone

down, you will definitely know if he is the right African safari operator for

you or if you have just escaped a close shave.



Where to Travel as First-Time Safari Goers?

(By Heidi Podjavorsek)

Most people think of Africa as their trip of a lifetime, and therefore want to

cover the entire continent in one trip. My advice is for first time travelers to

focus on one, two or maximum three countries in either Southern Africa

(South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi) or East

Africa (Kenya and Tanzania)/Central Africa (Rwanda and Uganda popular for

gorilla trekking). The distances between countries are far and often

underestimated. Your time is better spent in a safari vehicle than on an

airplane. What happens to most visitors after their first trip is that they can‘t

wait to go back. So be ready for your new addiction: AFRICA!

When people think of a safari, most first-time adventurers think of Kenya.

This is certainly the most famous – and the oldest safari destination in

Africa. After all, the word ―Safari‖ in Swahili means journey. At the turn of

the century, the country was best known for its hunting safaris. Wealthy

Europeans and Americans traveled to East Africa to hunt elephant, lion, and

rhino. Hemingway, Roosevelt, and Churchill were just a few of the notables

that put Kenya on the safari map decades ago.

Over the years, Kenya morphed into a more traditional safari destination,

offering visitors the chance to shoot with cameras instead of guns. And



today, the grandsons and granddaughters of the original Kenyan hunting

guides are still there and still very much involved in the safari business, so

Kenya is steeped in history. The country has a very old and developed safari

infrastructure, and wildlife viewing is still as magnificent as ever.

In East Africa you can see hundreds if not thousands of zebras and

wildebeest roaming the wide plains. The annual migration is the largest

wildlife spectacle on earth where animals, following the water and food,

migrate from Tanzania‘s Serengeti in the South to Kenya‘s Masai Mara in the

North and back.

In Southern Africa animals have food and water year round, so there is no

need for them to migrate. Therefore in Southern Africa you can have

successful wildlife sightings during any time of the year, with the exception

of the rainy or ―green‖ season (November through March) where you are

rewarded with views of herbivores having their babies. Secondly, the

ecosystem in Southern Africa allows many animal species to cohabitate

together. So for example if you were looking down from the air, you would

see a herd of zebra standing close to a herd of elephant, which are very

close to a pride of sleeping lions. This means that you can often see all of

the Big 5 in just one game drive. This is especially important for clients that

have limited time on safari and would like to see as many species as possible

over the course of a 2 or 3 night stay in the bush.



Then of course there are differences in accommodations and safari vehicles.

In East Africa you will find many large hotel-style lodges that cater to a high

density of tourists. There are only few smaller lodges also referred to as

―Bush Homes‖. The safari vehicles have traditionally been pop-top mini vans

where passengers stand up and peer through the roof or watch the wildlife

through the enclosed van.

Due to private land concessions, in Southern Africa you have the opportunity

for a more private safari experience. You will find a great variety of small

intimate lodges, with only 10 to 20 guests. Some are very upscale offering

the private use of a vehicle, chefs preparing 5-course meals, wine cellars,

etc. there seem to be no limits. Lodges often restrict how many vehicles are

allowed at one animal sighting, which may be a good question for you to ask

when choosing a lodge.

Regardless if you travel to East Africa or Southern Africa, it is nice to not

only stay at solid built lodge but also at a tented camp, this allows you to

smell and hear the bush. Don‘t fear the animals, they won‘t know the

difference.

However, when you are ready to plan a safari, you always want to consult

with an expert.



What to Choose: A Mobile Safari or a Lodge Safari?

(By Johan Knols)

© Drumbeat Safaris

You have made the decision to go on safari. You probably have images of

wide open plains and spectacular wildlife in mind. You might even dream

about those fantastic colorful African sunsets. But are you aware of the

different ways in which you can experience your safari?

A safari can be done as a ‗mobile safari‘ or as a ‗lodge safari‘ and in this

article I will try to make the differences clear. One should bear in mind that

mobile safaris as well as lodge safaris can be done on all different kind of

(price) levels. The basic differences you will find below:

On a mobile safari your camp and camp staff will stay with you during the duration of your trip. On a lodge safari you travel to

accommodations that are fixed and the staff normally lives on the premises.

On a mobile safari your accommodation is always tented, otherwise it would be impossible to travel with your camp. On a lodge safari your

accommodation can be tented (as you find in many lodges in Botswana), but most of the time your accommodation is not tented

and made out of building materials.

On a mobile safari your level of service is in general lower than on a lodge safari. There will be no 'running' water, the toilet facilities will be

more basic (often a hole in the ground with a 'thunder box'), and there



will never be air-conditioning. Lodges often have electricity available;

this is seldom the case on a mobile safari. On a mobile safari the most common mode of transport are 4x4

vehicles. These are even used to move you from one camp site to the next. Transport during a lodge safari is normally done by aircraft (so

called fly-in safari). On a mobile safari animals will normally have free access to your

camp. Due to the fixed character of lodges, you often find some kind of (electric) fence around the lodge. Keep this in mind when you travel

with children! During a mobile safari you will be dealing with one guide for the

duration of your trip. On a lodge trip you will be dealing with a new guide for every new lodge you visit.

Making a private safari with your family or friends is often cheaper on a mobile safari. During a lodge safari you will have less privacy since

there is a good chance of other (unknown) people being in the lodge

as well. Often mobile safaris are, due to a different service level, cheaper than

lodge safaris.

I can imagine that you ask yourself what would be the right choice for you.

Unless you are an adventurer or a traveler that does not need a lot of

pampering, I would suggest you start your first African Safari trip with a

lodge safari, just to be on the safe side. Once you have tasted the bush and

safari-life, you can decide for a mobile safari on your next visit.

© Cheli & Peacock

What a lot of people underestimate is the fact that wildlife can get right to

your tent on a mobile safari. It is all nice and well when you sit and book a

safari behind the desk of your local travel agency, but for a lot of people it is

not so romantic any more when lions roar right next to their tent in the



middle of the African bush. So if you are not the bravest person in the world,

consider a lodge trip the first time you visit Africa.

When it comes to guiding on your trip, I must say that I prefer a mobile

safari. The reason is simple. Because of the fact that your guide stays with

you for the whole trip, (s)he will be less likely to keep telling you the same

stories over and over again. (S)he knows what animals have been discussed

and will not rush you around to see the 'big five' all the time. This is

certainly something that will happen in every new lodge you get to, as the

new guide loves your tipping money and will only have you for a day or 2. In

their perception more tips will come if they are able to show you the big five.

This gets pretty boring if it happens every time you visit a new lodge!

When you go for a mobile safari you should be prepared to spend many

hours in a vehicle. As mentioned above, transportation between camp sites

is done by vehicle and sometimes the distances are vast. The advantage is

that you get to see the landscape up close and that even on 'moving days'

you can see amazing wildlife. Although flying saves you time, you miss quite

a bit of the unique African landscape.

My Personal Opinion:

Although a lodge safari is more comfortable and easier, I prefer a mobile

safari. On a mobile safari one has a feeling of being in closer contact with

nature. Sitting around a camp fire in the evening in the bush gives a

different feel to being in a lodge. And the fact that you sleep in a tent gives

you a feeling of being more on par with the animals that might visit your

camp. It all boils down to what you want to get out of your African

experience.

If you‘re not sure whether a mobile safari is something for you or not, don't

be a hero and go for the safe option; book a lodge safari! You will be able to

make a better judgment after your first time.

Whether you book a lodge trip or a mobile trip, enjoy Africa and the bush,

and make the most of it!



Costs Involved in a Safari - What You Need to Know!

(By Michaël Theys)

Very often people associate safaris with exorbitant prices and out of reach

vacations, yet this is by no means always the case! At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you're looking for. If you envision a safari with

luxurious rooms, satellite television, air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, divine cuisine and your own fireplace; then of course nothing is too big, too

beautiful, too luxurious...and too expensive to satisfy your wants! If however, you're happy with just a small bungalow (or a safari tent),

common ablutions, decent food and a stunning location; there's no reason why you can't find affordable rates to suit your needs (and at the same time

your wallet).

All Inclusive formula

The often called "all in" formula means that everything is included in your package: from air flights (if any) to park entries, accommodation and meals.

Additional costs usually involve drinks and any activities around the lodge: game drives, night drives, boat trips and guided walks! But then again,

sometimes they might even be part of the deal!

Prices will vary from place to place, but to give you a general idea activities will range from $10-30 pp.

Camping



Often lodges will have two areas: one with bungalows/rooms and another

with camp sites or tents. The second formula is by far the cheapest. Costs are habitually decent, only involving a small fee (as little as $3-5 a day) to

put up your tent and for the usage of the ablutions.

The advantage of camping is that you are closer to nature than ever. Especially at night, when nocturnal animals roam by your tent or "bizarre"

sounds haunt your sleep. Most common visitors are "laughing" hyenas and common bush babies. It is not unusual either to hear lion calls coming from

a distance!

I have had interesting experiences on various occasions. This one time,

there was a huge bull elephant right outside my tent window. Very intense feeling...both exciting and TERRIFYING!! You could hear the animal

smashing branches and crunching its food while eating...I was praying he wouldn't play around with my tent! Luckily, as I speak I'm still alive and

well. ;)

I can imagine you jumping up and down on your seat as I write these sentences! Don't you worry! Most facilities are fenced off, and if not are

guarded by armed men (quite often Maasai people in East Africa).

The only downturn of camping is that it demands a little more organization and effort. For instance, you have to take your own camping equipment with

you (some of it may be provided at the camp itself), your own groceries (a

few facilities have their own shops i.e. inside Kruger National Park;



Skukuza), cook your own food (or eat at the restaurant), and drive your own

car in the game area.

Talking about food, VERY IMPORTANT: be on the lookout for baboons and Vervet monkeys that might come steal away some of your belongings. Make

sure you do not leave anything lying around! It will be gone in an instant...

Bed & Breakfast formula

One alternative to camping inside the park is to stay on the vicinity of the reserve. While it is not necessarily as "unique" (I'd rather stay inside the

park if possible), it might be worth it especially if you have money concerns. There are usually quite a few options available, ranging from hotels to

hostels and guest houses. Some hotels even have an impressive view overlooking the reserve itself, which is a great bonus (at least it gives you a

nice flavor of the bush)!

My recommendation is that you take a B & B (Bed and Breakfast) formula.

In other words, you get a room and a breakfast (and what a breakfast indeed...mhhhh) at a local residence and for a reasonable price (from $30

upwards per person).

Residents vs. Foreigner fees

As you can imagine, tourists are charged more than locals. In most

instances the price difference is somewhat important! For instance, park entrances might be as low as $5 per person per night for a resident, and as

high as $25 pppn for a foreigner.

My hint: If you're on safari with friends that are residents, it is sometimes possible to pass the entry gate as locals and thus pay resident fees. Stay in

the car and let your pals do the talk! Not always successful though!



High vs. Low Season

As mentioned earlier, summer/dry season months are peak times for tourists and tourist attractions (except in Southern Africa where it is

arguably better to visit reserves or parks in winter). Make sure you have your reservations sorted out well in advance, as places are often fully

booked months beforehand. In South Africa for example, some areas of the Kruger Park are reserved from six months to up to a year early!

If you're looking for more advantageous fares, be ready to plan your trip during the lower season (despite cooler weather and relatively poorer game

viewing opportunities).

NB: When I say "poorer" game viewing opportunities notice that everything is relative. I've frequently experienced incredible sightings during the rainy

season/winter months. The major concern during that time of the year has to do with higher rainfall and greater food availability for the animals.

Thus the animals tend to be more dispersed in the park. Additionally, dirt roads become impassable and some of the facilities are forced to close

down!

Transport



Driving your own vehicle or renting a car for the occasion might be

preferable in terms of costs. In most instances park roads are well indicated, and it is possible to buy very useful maps of the area at the entrance gate.

Note nonetheless that driving your private vehicle is not always possible! In

places such as private game reserves and certain nature reserves, you are OBLIGED to use cars from the lodges/camp sites!

5 Tips on Finding Hidden Safari Gems! (By Sara Brown)

Finding destinations that are a secret from the masses, superb places not on

the standard radar, untouched corners that are naturally awe inspiring,

where wildlife still rules and are personally uplifting - these places are safari

perfection. How do you find these hidden gems?

1. Do your research - use the web

Using the web to investigate what Africa has to offer can be difficult

because Africa is still in the process of getting online. Though it is

getting better fast, quality information still lacks overall. However, it is

still a good starting point to gather basic ideas and leads.

2. Use local knowledge

Assuming you are using a travel agent, once you have some

destination and experience ideas select an agent who really knows

your chosen country(s). I mean an agent who has lived there, an

agent who has taken the journeys you're being recommended. Don't

go for run of the mill packages as these will take you directly to

destinations that are crowded, commercial and very eco-unfriendly.

You could book direct and use a travel agent in the country you want



to visit. (Advantage: often a financial saving. Disadvantage: harder to

access). Or, find the right agent in your home town who offers

personalised itineraries based on their deep knowledge and experience

of the destinations you want to visit. (Advantage: quality and reliable

service. Disadvantage: might miss out on financial savings and up to

the minute local knowledge). Remember, don't fill up your itinerary

completely, some gaps will come in handy...

3. Visit local book shops

Once you are in your country of choice local book shops can be

surprisingly useful. Books on the history, culture and local tourism

developments can often point you in the right direction, to destinations

that are internationally unheard of and yet often provide the most

fulfilling adventures.

4. Ask the locals

Speak to the people around you, from fellow travellers to drivers to

market stall holders. Ask fellow travellers where they have been and

ask the locals what areas they come from originally. Share what

adventures you are after and ask them what they would suggest for

you.



5. Local guides

Finally, armed with the information from local book shops and people

now's your chance to go to a local travel agent and ask them for some

tips. They can suggest a local guide who can advise you accordingly or

travel with you. Or they can arrange mini trips within your overall

itinerary to destinations you've discovered since your arrival.

Follow these tips and you're bound to experience destinations that are

literally off the beaten track - often with no track directly to them! They'll need investigation and bravery, but once there you'll understand why this

kind of adventure is so worth it.

Words of Advice! (By Mark Gunn)

A recent upgrade in binoculars has paid dividends. I can now see the birds

that were a blur before. The return of the migrant birds from their winter

ranges is really making the upgrade worthwhile. My point here is that you

get what you pay for. We often get students that buy a pair of binoculars

that cost three or four hundred rand ($40-50+). They think their purchase is

good because they know no better. Spend at least R1500 (+/- $200) and

get a good pair of binoculars. The next step of course is then to become

possessive about them and not lend them to anyone. Other people very

rarely look after equipment that is not theirs. A small pair of very cheap

binoculars is very useful to placate your guest when they also want to see

the bird or animal. The same concept applies to all guides‘ equipment. You

cannot afford to have a backpack that chaffs your shoulders or hips. You will

be focusing on your discomfort rather than the task of guiding and keeping

your guests safe. Another point that until recently did not even occur to me

was dehydration. I thought that because I have four water bottles in my kit

that I was fine in this regard. WRONG. The mere fact that I would have to

remove my pack to get at the bottles restricted my willingness to drink. A

bladder hydration pack is an absolute must. The simplicity is amazing. A

pipe hanging over your shoulder is always accessible and your water

consumption will be apace with your needs. The only downside to this

system is that you cannot SEE the level so you might forget to refill. Many

students have arrived without a rain coat or poncho. A rain suit is a bit

mono-usage. A poncho will serve as a rain cover for you as well as your



pack. It can also be used as a bivouac. Good heavy duty quality is a must. If

a guest is struggling with faulty/inadequate personal equipment it can

become a problem. If the GUIDE is struggling with the same the situation is

immediately a problem and safety is compromised from the get go. The

puppet Achmed says "location, location, location."

The mantra for the good guide should be "quality, quality, quality."

The Letter above was about having the correct equipment. Having all the

bells and whistles is all fine and well, you also need to know how to use it.

Learn the correct usage of your equipment and you will get the best results.

Time and again we have had to step in to do the most basic things for the

students. Packing the trailer so as to get the most in or to have the correct

order of extraction of equipment is something that is not in everyone's

capabilities. When you are in charge of an expedition you are the one that

everyone looks to for guidance. Having the table packed in the right place so

that it can be used without unpacking the whole trailer is important. If you

are going to need something first then it must go in last. If things are

packed properly then they will not be damaged, this is also something to

bear in mind.

Who of you can tie a full load down so

that all the cargo is secure from falling

off as well as being secure from

rattling? A rattled piece of kit could well

be worn through or damaged. A good

rucksack can cost over a thousand rand

(>$130). The guest will not thank you

if it is chaffed through while it is in the

trailer. The skill of packing and tying a cargo is paramount to the success of

a trip. If a bag has fallen off you will be a bit unpopular to say the least.

Think for your client/guest. They do not know the road or the conditions you

will be encountering. As you proceed make a point of teaching them to help

you so that they can be more of an asset than a liability to you in your job.

We make a point of teaching our students some basic knots on the course.

Yes they will forget them if they do not practice. They are advised of the

importance of a simple thing like a bowline but without them realizing

the need too practice they will lose the skill. Which brings me to my next

point; we must also practice these skills. Some are so ingrained that death



will be the only way to lose them. Others are not so set and refresher

practice is called for. Having been a boy scout, a sailor and a rock-climber I

have an unfair advantage with the knots but there are other things that I

have to practice.

It behoves us all to be prepared. Not only with kit but skills to match!



II. Photography Tips

Shooting the Light! (By Gerry van der Walt)

Why do we stop to have a drink when the sun sets?

I am all for having a drink and watching the sun set, and for some this is a

near-religious safari experience, but that is absolutely prime photography

time!

It is amazing how many people / photographers / guides like to carry on

about the ‗good light‘ when they are out in the bush yet when the light is at

its most beautiful they stop for drinks. This is all good if you are going to

take some time to photograph the landscape or sunset while having your

liquid refreshment but what about the shots you are missing?

It is during the time that we make love to our tonic & gin (thanks Piano

Man!) and poetically discuss how wonderful it is to be out in the African bush

that an impala, zebra or even a dead tree turns into a natural work of art.

Photography is all about light. There are so many people who throw around

the ‗good light‘ term yet they never actually stop to use it, look at it or

photograph it.

Sunrise and sunset must be two of the most amazing times to photograph



yet many people are disappointed when they look at their resulting images.

Al with all types of photography there are a few things to keep in mind when

shooting sunsets and sunrises which include:

Look for strong / interesting silhouettes - at this time of day they can

make great images.

Underexpose slightly to keep the texture in the sky - stops you from

blowing out the highlights in the sky.

Look for colors - colors create various moods in an image and they are

everywhere.

Meter off the sky - this will help you get you t get your colors right in

the image.

Don’t take too long with your shots - the light changes all the time

during this time of day.

Keep it simple - don‘t try for too much as the colors and feel of the

image should be able to carry it!

One last thing to keep in mind when shooting sunsets, and sunrises for that

matter, is that you do not always have to go with the orange feel as in the

images above. Sunsets are mostly dominated by shades of orange which

combines the energy of red and happiness of yellow.

You don‘t have to stick to these colors as the moment the sun disappears

below the horizon you will start getting colors that range from purple and

pink to blue and black. Use these colors in combination to create dynamic

images of whatever you can find!



Next time you are out in nature around sunset make sure to keep your eyes

open. During those last few magical daylight hours there are photo

opportunities absolutely everywhere.

I guess the bottom line would be - stop talking about how good the light is

and start shooting it. And then have that drink!



Inspired and Inventive Wildlife Photography! (By Kerry de Bruyn)

There are a million websites and books that can tell you all about the

technical aspects of photography and I‘m sure if you are a photography

enthusiast you would have read some, so taking that into consideration I

decided to share the other part of wildlife photography that I believe plays a

part in taking beautiful photographs, and that is creativity.

Be creative, be different. Everyone can take a picture of an elephant feeding

on juicy leaves and branches. The norm would be a full frame photograph of

her twisting her trunk and breaking off a piece but what happens if you take

the picture head on at a lower angle while she is looking at you, the

photograph changes completely; it instantly becomes intense. Now take that

picture and instead of taking it straight on, turn your camera, change the

‗normal‘ composition to something unexpected. You will instantly have a

fresh image and not the normal African elephant. It‘s your own take on

Africa. Just like how every animal‘s stripes or spots are different you should

be too.

Pay attention to the smaller things too. Insects can play a beautiful and

intriguing role in nature and make a photograph interesting and again,

different. A simple thing like a moth flying around a lion cub‘s head can

make for the most beautiful photograph. Behavior makes a photograph so

much more intriguing and pulls the viewer in wanting to know more. Pay



attention to the things going on around the animal. Detail can also make a

photograph, a glimmer of sunshine in a lion‘s eye or the sunlight rays

pushing through the deep wrinkles on an elephant‘s old skin creating a

contrast so deep it just draws your eye in. Insects themselves also make

fascinating subjects and are often overlooked so next time you walk past a

bush take out your macro lens and go searching through the leaves and

branches for captivating creatures, and again don‘t just shoot them straight

on, find the most interesting feature on them and focus on that, try a few

different angles and compositions. I take loads of photographs and only pick

out some of them but experimenting will help you for years to come and will

also help you find your own style.

Wildlife photography for me is about bringing across your own personal style

and educating people about the conservation of our creatures so get out

there, experiment, be different and intriguing and show the world that you

have completely different stripes to any other zebra…



Anticipate It! (By Gerry van der Walt)

Anticipation is one of the most important factors in capturing great wildlife

images.

Even though it has been shot a million times, a yawning lion still makes for

an impressive image. The problem is that, depending on your camera of

course, you need to click the shutter at exactly the right moment to get that

classic safari image. If only there were some warning signals for when he

large cat will actually start yawning. There is.

Have a look at the two lion images above. The one you want is obviously on

the right hand side but before you get to that one, the lion will always give

you advance warning by showing you the face on the left. The mouth opens

very slightly. The tongue slowly rolls out of the mouth and from there it

progresses to a full blown, teeth and tongue yawn. Watch, wait, click and

you got it.

Anticipation.

If you only get to travel to Africa every once in a while it is obviously quite

difficult to anticipate some of these moments and this is where an

experienced guide can make all the difference. Not just a normal guide but a



guide with photographic experience. A guide who has a passion for both the

natural world and photography. He will have it - anticipation.

Here is another example.

The above shot of an elephant would probably pass as a very acceptable

safari image. Slightly boring, but solid.

Now everything in nature has a rhythm and if you take the time to sit and

watch you will start seeing recurring behavior patterns which then gives you

the perfect opportunity to photograph those magic moments. This is where

your guide can be invaluable! We sat watching the above elephant for quite

some time as he leisurely dusted himself. Same pattern over and over again.

Each time he would grab a trunk-full of red dirt and toss it up into the air. A

perfect moment to photograph.



When you start seeing the patterns in nature you will start seeing image in

your mind. The image above was one of the first attempts I had at capturing

the elephant as he tossed the red dirt into the air. Too late. The dirt was

already dropping to the floor.

The nice thing here was that I had a very good chance of having another go

at the image as the old boy was completely engrossed in his dust bath.

Another thing to keep in mind is that when you have a recurring scene you

have the chance to make sure that your exposure and composition is spot

on. Use the LCD on your camera and play with the various settings but

remember that you are still in the wild and that your subject could decide at

any point that it is time to move on.

We sat waiting for the ellie to go through his dust bathing ritual again and

patience paid off with the following image as a result.



Slightly better than the second attempt but still not the image I had in mind.

With every anticipated action you witness there is a peak. The moment when

the lion‘s mouth is at its widest. The moment when the bird opens its wings

to take off and, in this case, the moment when the majority of red dirt is at

the highest point above the elephant. Sitting, waiting and watching I was

finally able to anticipate the following image.



Finally got the shot I was looking for. Everything worked out perfectly form

the dust in the air to the curled trunk and slightly tilted head. Exactly what I

was looking for.

Patience and anticipation can result in amazing wildlife images so next time

you head out in to the wild make sure to slow down, look for patterns and

start shooting from there.



III. Game Walks

What is a Game Walk?

(By Johan Knols)

Adrenalin in the bush!

© Cheli & Peacock

You will feel the excitement when you traverse the African bush on foot. You

are at par with wildlife and your senses will be stretched to the limit.

Walking on safari has become more and more popular over the years due to

two reasons: First of all people were getting tired of sitting in a vehicle all

the time, and secondly, walking is eco friendly.

A game walk is, just like a game drive, an activity that will last part of a day

(unlike a walking safari that can last over several days) and should not last

much longer than 2-2,5 hours. The big advantage of a game walk is that

you will have a chance to experience nature up close. Your walking guide will

be able to show you all sort of things that are difficult to see from a vehicle.

You will have the chance to look at hyena and lion tracks, feel the texture of

elephant dung and taste some of the fruits of the bush. This will bring about

– together with the information of your game drives - a bigger picture of the

African wilderness.

Although some people see amazing stuff while being on foot, a game walk is

normally not intended to bring you close to dangerous game and you never

know what you might run into. It is therefore extremely important that your

guide is well equipped for your walk. You will also see that animals react

completely different to people walking in the bush than them being in a



moving vehicle. In some respect you are more of a threat to wildlife walking

than driving and therefore wildlife will disappear earlier when you are on

foot. I know it sounds weird!

Fortunately it is not allowed to just walk anywhere and in most national

parks and game reserves walking is prohibited (although the wildlife laws

differ greatly from country to country). In general it is always possible to

walk in private wildlife concessions, and in wildlife areas outside the reserves

and parks. So check out your possibilities if you book your safari and you are

keen to stretch your legs and see Africa in macro!

© Robin Pope Safaris

Your responsibility on a walk:

Wear closed, rugged shoes

Wear neutral colored clothing and long pants (thorns!)

Speak softly

Make sure your guide knows how far you would like to go

Don‘t go on a walk if you are not fit

ALWAYS listen to the guide

NEVER leave the group



The guide’s responsibility on a walk:

Have a small first aid kit at hand

Have a radio for communication with base

Be armed with a heavy caliber rifle

Be organized and carry water

Go as fast as the slowest in the group (the chain is as strong as the

weakest link!)

Is a game walk dangerous?

Most game walks are conducted in areas that are rather open as it is

important to see as far ahead as possible. A knowledgeable guide who can

also handle a rifle is a must on your walk. This does not mean that accidents

don‘t occur (and I like to stress this), and sitting in a vehicle is always safer

than strolling through the African bush. However, if you get the chance to go

on a walk and you are reasonably fit, do take the opportunity, even if it is

only to experience how an impala must feel.

Happy walking!

Rewinding the Travel Clock: Africa Walking Safaris!

(By Anne Huysman)



The origin of African safaris can be traced back to the walking tours which

the early explorers, missionaries and trophy hunters did in the toughest

conditions known to man. While these pioneers of safari had a whole life

devoted to traversing the African continent on foot, you can enjoy a quality

walking safari even with limited number of safari days.

What makes walking safaris such a superior travel experiences? Simply put

it is the magic of outdoors: game in open grasslands, the shimmering colors

of a bird in flight and the sheer joy of being away from mass tourism.

Though the type of game you are likely to see will depend on the location of

your walking safari, a well thought-out safari should give you sightings of

giraffes, zebras and various antelopes. There are places where you may walk

without an armed ranger but where there is dangerous game an armed

ranger is essential for safety.

Overall safety should be the determining factor and ideally you should not

get in close proximity with dangerous game such as lions, buffaloes,

elephants, rhinos or hippos.

Are there places which can be ranked as the best for walking safaris? Private

game conservancies and small national parks give more value to your guided

walking tour as they are not visited by mass tourism.



A walking safari requires better logistics than lodge-to-lodge package tours,

and it is therefore important to do a thorough background check on the

experience of the walking safaris outfitter and his guides before booking the

tour. There is a clear difference between a trail guide whom you follow

blindly and a naturalist safari guide who brings life into your safari by

explaining and interpreting animal‘s behavior, identifying various birds and

who genuinely enjoys being outdoors.

To get maximum value from your walking safari, it is important to have

back-up vehicles or animals for carrying luggage. The vehicle comes in

handy in that you can hop in and do a game drive instead of walking.

Your accommodation during the walking safari should be close to the walking

sites to reduce the amount of time taken for transfers.

Walking safaris in East Africa can be done all year round. Even in the rainy

season as long as one is not camping out in the bush, it is possible to go out

for walks. Yes, life never stops in Africa! It is more likely to rain in the

afternoon, so you can still enjoy your early morning walks.

The distances walked vary, but look at 10-12 km with frequent stops for

game viewing. Ideally it should be possible for the walking group to split up

to accommodate not only different abilities but also different interests such

as bird watching and nature photography.



IV. Self Drive Safaris

Self Drive vs. Guided Safari Tours!

(By Hakon Kavli)

Most people who travel to Africa for the first time will normally choose a

safari tour, with drivers, guides and a set itinerary. And that probably makes

sense. Africa can be intimidating and overwhelming for the first time visitor.

I am not trying to convince you otherwise with this article, but I will remind

you of the option of self drive safaris. For some, it might just be the right

way to travel.

What is a self drive safari?

The meaning of self drive safari is fairly obvious. It is a safari where you are

in the driver‘s seat, you do the planning, you spot the animals and you are

responsible to get where you wish to get.

Who should not go on a self drive safari?

This is a tough question; I don‘t like to say that a certain type of people

should not do a self drive. But the truth is that this is a way of travel that

demands more from the traveler than an organized tour. You have to be

willing to do research beforehand. It is crucial that you read up on safety,



rules, animal behavior (!), etc. What would you do if an elephant charges?

What if your vehicle is caught in a herd of buffalos? Where are you allowed

to drive? Where are you allowed to camp? Are certain areas too dangerous

to visit? Where are you likely to see more animals? These are all ―problems‖

you have to study before you leave for a self drive.

In the end, there is one honest question that I would ask myself before

deciding:

What is your main motivation for going on a safari?

Is it watching wildlife, seeing animals and learning about species, behavior

and life in the reserves?

- If so, you should go on a guided tour. The guides have an incredible

amount of knowledge, and they can‘t wait to teach you! They will also

help you spot more animals than you would ever manage on your

own.

Are you traveling for the adventure of “exploring” Africa, the feeling of being

in the wild with the animals and African nature?

- Well, then you should keep reading, as a self drive might be the right

way to go.



Preparing for a Self Drive Safari!

What to bring?

What you need to bring on a self drive safari depends on what kind of

accommodation you‘re planning on using. Camping or staying at lodges? Are

you cooking all your meals? Are you going on a real expedition into the wild,

or just cruising in the park for a couple of days? You get it. Well, here is a

list of the essentials:

A 4x4 vehicle (though in some parks like Kruger in South Africa, a

2WD sedan is sufficient)

Long range fuel tank

Water tank with plenty of drinking water

First aid kit

Good maps

GPS (not as crucial as good maps)

Spare tire, jump start cables and towing straps

Tent, sleeping bags and general camping equipment

Torches and battery lamp

Cooking appliances

Satellite phone (if you‘re really going into the wild)

Binoculars and camera!

Safety and Concerns!



Some safety issues have already been mentioned. And I won‘t go in much

detail here, other than briefly reminding you of the most important points.

On a self drive safari, you have to be alert to the dangers that a guide would

normally worry about for you.

Traffic safety is an obvious concern wherever you‘re driving, but in Africa

there are a couple of things you should remember. The road quality can be

way poorer than what you are used to, so always keep an eye out for

potholes and bumps. And even more important, in the dark you have to

remember that the wildlife you watch during the day, are still there at night

and probably even more active. Drive slowly and watch out for animals

crossing the road in front of your vehicle.

Animal behavior was the other point I mentioned. It is extremely important

that you know what distance you should keep to the animals, how to react

to their behavior and understand when you are in danger. A safari truck is

not much protection if a rhino or elephant is attacking you.

Where and How?

Some parks are more self drive friendly than others. Parks in Southern

Africa are typically easier to navigate and have better roads, so for a first

timer I would probably recommend Kruger in South Africa, Etosha in

Namibia or Chobe in Botswana. All these parks have high density of animals

and you are likely to spot a lot of them without the help of a guide.



Wherever you go, the season you are traveling in is important. Read ahead

about what time of the year is better for your park of choice, or the other

way; find out what park is better at the time you will be traveling. Also make

sure that you make reservations ahead, especially if you will be there during

high season! But one thing is always the same, whatever time of the year

you are traveling; make sure you wake up early to see the best game. Be

out in your car by dawn, which is when the animals are more active. Then

have a rest at your camp during midday, before you go on an evening drive

at dusk. But always remember to check the opening hours for the park

you‘re in!

The best part of self drive safaris!

I have been on guided safaris and self drives. We saw way more animals on

the guided tour, and spotted pretty much all the species in the book. But to

me, nothing compares to the feeling of spotting a lion on your own! It‘s just

you and your travel partners, on an unforgettable adventure in Africa‘s wild!



V. Horseback Safaris

African Horseback Safari - Common Questions & Concerns Uncovered!

(By Sara Brown)

© Livingstone’s Adventure

A horseback safari in Africa probably sounds very appealing to the adventurous traveler who seeks the unexpected. But what exactly can you

expect on a horseback safari? And what about the many concerns that people have, like safety and fitness levels? Here are some answers.

Many questions are often raised about the safety of riding when surrounded by game in their natural environment. Horseback safaris are available for all

levels of riders - complete beginners right through to professionals. Some African riding holidays will take complete beginners through exotic locations

teaching them to ride along the way. Others are suitable only for experienced, fit and confident riders who may be called upon to confidently

walk, trot, canter or even gallop away from big game.

Despite understandable concerns many types of African game can be safely viewed by varying levels of riders with the simple ingredient of respect for

the environment that you are in and for your guide who will instruct you on



what to do when. A tip here is to seek advice from those you are booking

with.

All African riding holidays are accompanied by at least two guides, with a lead guide in front and the other bringing up the rear. Guides on African

safari will be armed and experienced at reading animal behavior. Instructions from your guide must be adhered to. For your safety they are

entitled to request that you dismount or even disallow you from riding if they think that you may endanger the safety of the horses, yourself, or other

people.

Fitness is an area that you need to consider. Horseback safaris can involve

base rides or a point rides. On a base ride you return with your horse to the same base each night. On a point to point ride you progress each day riding

to new destinations. The advantage of a base ride is you can choose to have a day off if you feel stiff or tired. In contrast, a point to point ride involves

an exploratory trail and a planned schedule so a certain amount of riding fitness and ability will be necessary. If riding is a new thing for you or you

don't ride regularly a base ride over a weekend or day rides may be easier on your body and more doable than a point to point ride. There's no getting

away from the fact that if you are physically fit you will get much more pleasure out of your horseback safari.

And then there is the question about if children can take part in horseback safaris. It is unlikely that children under the age of twelve will be permitted

to go on an African horseback safari. If you have younger children check if child minding services can be arranged. Since children are fascinated by

nature lots of engaging activities could be arranged while you go riding.

What is included in an African riding holiday may vary between service

providers. You can usually expect the price to include accommodation, meals, guides, luggage transportation (from point to point) camping

equipment and a horse and tack.

Accommodation on horseback safari varies considerably from camping under the stars to luxurious lodges lost in the middle of nowhere to private lavish

safari houses. Of course your chosen budget will dictate what you experience.

Overall, the main thing to remember is ask for advice. Speak to who you are booking with. Email the people you will be riding with who will only be too

happy to help and advise you. If you have questions or concerns, raise them. It's much better to be prepared and to understand your up and

coming adventure travel experience in detail. One more thing - holiday



insurance is of course advisable for such an adventure holiday and it is likely

to be mandatory. Though this may sound obvious, ensure that your insurance covers riding activities!



VI. Voluntourism

Mixing it Up: Combining An African Safari With Voluntourism!

(By Siobhán Kindness)

For some it‘s a chance to gain a deeper insight into the local culture, for

others it‘s part of a desire to give something back to Africa, but whatever

the choice of voluntour, safari goers will be pleased to hear that it‘s not all

work and no wildlife. Of course, if you‘re heading off to the continent the

chances are that spotting the Big Five is top of your list; and luckily, a wide

range of tour operators now offer opportunities to combine the feel good

factor with those essential doses of game viewing.

So what‘s the best combination? First of all think laterally. If you‘re an avid

safari enthusiast and you want to tick off a fair chunk of the animal

kingdom, then a voluntour based in one static location may not be for you.

Overlanding is an ideal alternative, as you can still capture a good selection

of national parks and game reserves, and slot in a day or two of

voluntourism en route. Budget friendly and lasting on average for around



four to five weeks, you‘ll also be able to cover several countries in one trip

without leaving yourself out of pocket.

So can you make a difference to the project in only one day? I would have to

say yes...

The majority of schemes benefit from these brief visits on a practical

level and it will give you a chance to get under the skin of your host

country.

With roughly 20 people heading overland on any single tour there will

most likely be a great teamwork buzz by the time you reach the

project – unforgettable safari encounters often causing people to bond

overnight.

Also, bear in mind that most short-term visits are geared towards

hands on work, for example, helping to construct a local school by

laying bricks or painting classrooms. While it‘s normally a case of

simply pitching in, it‘s wise to ask what will be expected of you before

you book. If the travel advisor is able to give you a detailed description

of the activities on offer it‘s peace of mind for you, as their knowledge

will speak volumes about the tour operator‘s commitment to the

project.



Here’s a quick checklist:

Don‘t miss out – visit the travel company‘s website! As part of their

commitment to being eco-friendly, many tour operators are producing

smaller brochures and adding additional tours online.

What are you looking to get out of the experience? A good sales

advisor will match your skills and preferences to the right voluntour

experience.

When it comes to financial aid, how is the project benefiting from my

visit? Local payments might boggle the mind on a first look, but they

will give you a clear indication of your input.

So you want to make sure that the project you are working on has a

responsible ethos? Ask if the scheme employs local labor alongside

volunteers.

Is it the right mix for you? If you‘re contacting a travel company

featuring dedicated voluntours, ask about the safari excursions on

offer and how much time is dedicated to the pursuit of game viewing.

Want an objective viewpoint? Head to the tour operator‘s Facebook

page, as you may well pick up on some interesting advice allowing you

to ―gen up‖ pre-trip – but more importantly, you‘ll know if the itinerary

is right for you.



VII. Gorilla Safaris

Gorilla Trekking! (By Michelle Lewis)

The Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla Beringei Beringei) is one of the world‘s most

endangered apes, its habitat covering protected portions of up to three

countries including, Uganda, northwestern Rwanda and eastern DRC.

Tracking the gorillas is certainly one of life‘s highlights and it‘s always an

unforgettable experience for the many adventurers whom I‘ve guided on this

exhilarating adventure.

Yes, I am one of the lucky few that has worked for overland company ‗Acacia

Africa,‘ my journeys taking me through eastern and southern sections of the

continent including, the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and

the ―Parc National des Volcans‖ in Rwanda.

Even after being on the road for several years I can say without a doubt that

Africa never fails to surprise you, but there‘s something special about



encountering these amazing creatures, every meeting being both

breathtaking and addictive.

On your gorilla trek you will be led by qualified trackers and local guides

through thick jungle, undergrowth and plantations. Group sizes are small,

and limited to parties of eight a day per gorilla family, and as overexposure

to human contact is harmful, the viewing duration is restricted to one hour.

The mountain gorillas live in groups of two to 40 individuals (with around 11

in a group or band); all led by a dominant male or head Silverback.

Herbivores and the largest of the primates, their DNA covers between 92-

98% of a human, making us their closest relatives. The females only

reproduce between two and six young in their life span, which is around 40-

50 years; hence the threat of extinction, their population around the world

numbering only 720 (approx). To give you some idea of current

predicament, that‘s only one mountain gorilla for every ten million people on

the earth. Bearing those figures in mind we humans must abide by strict

rules and regulations when viewing these remarkable creatures, as they are

highly susceptible to human diseases. Unfortunately, that means if you are

ill, even with a regular common cold, you will be unable to trek!

There are many things that I suggest to groups on a gorilla trek, but here

are some of the most important insider tips:

What to bring

Minimize your luggage to a small amount. This includes sharing sun block, a small first aid kit, and insect repellant.

Wear neutral colors whilst on the trek and a long sleeve shirt and trousers to protect you from the stinging nettles. Also, make sure you

have the appropriate weather gear and pack a small rainproof jacket. The right shoes are a must, as a trek can last anywhere from half an

hour to 10 hours. Long socks worn over trousers are also recommended to protect you from stinging ants.

Bring plenty of water. I normally suggest taking at least two to three liters (please note that it can get really hot and you‘ll need to quench

your thirst up in the mountains). Make sure that you have charged all the batteries in your camera and

have spares –you‘ll be surprised by how many photos you will take. Have a small pack of sweets, nuts and dry fruit at the ready for an

energy boost, together with a packed lunch.



Walking sticks can sometimes be hired or bring your own. Great for

keeping your balance! Sometimes porters can be hired to take your daypack. Remember to

bring a small quantity of US dollars to tip them. You may even get the opportunity to buy curios or hand-made

drawings of gorillas from the local village children – the perfect reminder of this truly unforgettable adventure.

Be prepared: depending on where you are trekking you may need to take a

transfer. Journey times can vary from anywhere between two and six hours,

the roads leading up to mountain accommodation surrounding the area of

the trekking point.

When viewing the mountain gorillas there are many rules to abide by, but

these are the main points to remember:

1. No flash photography 2. Move in slowly when you‘re taking photos

3. A maximum number of eight visitors per day may visit a band of gorillas

4. Do not eat, drink or throw away rubbish in the National Parks 5. Keep your voices to a low whisper

6. Stay together and never make eye contact with the gorillas 7. Leave a distance of at least seven meters between yourself and the

gorillas at all times



Most important of all: remember to spend at least half of your time watching

and learning and don‘t get stuck behind the camera lens. Of course, photos

are incredibly important as a reminder of this amazing encounter, but your

memories are too! Watching facial expressions, body movement and just

being a part of the adventure is truly special. I will never forget my many

treks – sometimes that one hour felt like just five minutes, as it is quite

simply, an awesome experience.

Want to make a date with the gorillas? Try Acacia Africa‘s 6-Day Troop to

The Gorillas overland tour (http://bit.ly/4ngb8q) covering the Bwindi

Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.

http://bit.ly/4ngb8q



VIII. Authors Area

Sara Brown, The Best of Zambia.

I was born in Zambia and spent the first 18 years of my life in rural Zambia.

I moved to England to pursue my studies and now run our family design

company in the UK (http://www.sarabrown.co.uk). In 2008 the idea for the

Best of Zambia was born. It seemed obvious - we love Zambia and travel,

design websites and recognized the missing link for Zambia tourism was that

it was not yet marketed effectively online. We now have a growing office in

Zambia and my dream is to have a positive effect on Zambia and other

African countries by working with them to showcase what they have to offer

on the web and promoting sustainable tourism, growth and investment.

Website: www.thebestofzambia.com

Twitter: twitter.com/thebestofzambia

Email: [email protected]

http://www.thebestofzambia.com/

http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia




Kerry de Bruyn, Kerry de Bruyn.com.

I am a wildlife photographer and journalist with a passion for exploration,

conservation and travel and I believe a single photograph captures

something so much more than just an image. Emotion, art and consequence

are some of the few things that follow the quick click of a shutter opening

and closing. Photographs to me play an important role in showing people

things that may not be around in years to come and I hope that I can play

my part in preserving our beautiful planet.

Website: www.kerrydebruyn.com

Twitter: twitter.com/AfricanPhoto

Facebook: Kerry de Bruyn Photography


http://www.kerrydebruyn.com/

http://twitter.com/AfricanPhoto

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kerry-de-Bruyn-Photography/108031136338




Mark Gunn, Ecotraining Instructor.

Mark spent his early years at Johannesburg Zoo, then moving onto

adventure sports and then into the bush. He has many years of experience

working in the bush and has an enormous interest in all creatures great and

small. Catching insects, butterflies and picking up stones is just part of

everyday life, spending hours analyzing the complexity in each object of

fascination.

Mark has that school boy charm just oozing with his excitement on all levels.

Taking his instructing very seriously, yet at the same time having teaching

techniques that are both very effective and exceptional fun. Work hard and

play hard! Mark is EcoTraining‘s Head Instructor at our Selati Camp,

teaching mainly our Field Guide Level 1 course.

Website: www.ecotraining.co.za

Twitter: twitter.com/EcoTraining


http://www.ecotraining.co.za/

http://twitter.com/EcoTraining




Sebastian Hermanns, TravelComments.

First time to Africa in 1998, did volunteer work in so-called "workcamps" on

Zanzibar (the first ever workcamp on the island) and Zimbabwe. Travelled

around for half a year. Beginning of my travels in Africa - been back to

Southern Africa at least once a year for some month since 1999. Started

travelcomments.com some years ago to share my knowledge about

travelling in Southern Africa.

Website: www.travelcomments.com

Twitter: twitter.com/travelcomments

Facebook: Travelcomments


http://www.travelcomments.com/

http://twitter.com/travelcomments

http://www.facebook.com/travelcomments?ref=ts




Anne Huysman, Ontdek Kenya Safaris.

Anne Huysman is the co-owner and operator of Ontdek Kenya – leader of

non-package nature safaris in Kenya since ‗96. Ontdek specializes in guided

walking tours, bird watching, photography and responsible wildlife viewing

safaris away from mass tourism. Experience where it matters!

Website: www.ontdek-kenya-safaris.com

Twitter: twitter.com/ontdeksafaris


http://www.ontdek-kenya-safaris.com/

http://twitter.com/ontdeksafaris




Hakon Kavli, The Africa Travel Blog.

My name is Hakon Kavli, I grew up in Norway, live in California, but am

moving to Cape Town with my fiancé in January 2010. There I will be going

to grad school at UCT to study the economics of travel in Africa. I have

approximately six months of travel experience in Southern and Eastern

Africa, plus countless hours of reading and writing about the topic. My

passion for travel in Africa has resulted in The Africa Travel Blog. - A website

for sharing experiences, information, thoughts and photos from the African

continent.

For further information about me or what I am doing, you can reach me

through these channels:

Website: www.theafricatravelblog.com

Twitter: twitter.com/thetravelblog

Facebook: The Africa Travel Blog


http://www.theafricatravelblog.com/

http://twitter.com/thetravelblog

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Africa-Travel-Blog/160600201641




Siobhán Kindness, tion London.

Siobhán Kindness is a creative partner at tion London

(http://www.tionlondon.co.uk ), a PR and digital strategy agency specializing

in travel and lifestyle. The creative outfit currently represents a broad

selection of adventure travel clients including tour operator Acacia Africa

(http://www.acacia-africa.com ). Adventurers should look out for the Africa

specialist's ―Go Wild Online‖ campaign, which will launch in December 2009.


http://www.tionlondon.co.uk/

http://www.acacia-africa.com/




Johan Knols, Plan Your Safari.

Born and bred in The Netherlands, Johan Knols spent fifteen years in Africa

where he worked three years as a lodge/camp manager in Tanzania and

Botswana. Feeling the urge to do more, his passion for the African bush

made him decide to start his own mobile safari company in Botswana in

1996. In becoming a full professional safari-guide, Johan‘s big dream came

true: showing people from all walks of life and from every corner of the

planet the beauty and mystery that Africa harbors.

The crown on his dedication was a request to become an Honorary Wildlife

Officer for the Department of Wildlife and National Parks in Botswana.

Johan returned to The Netherlands in 2007 and started working as a Product

Manager Africa for a tour-operator. Late 2008 he quit and started working

for himself and created ‗planyoursafari.com‘, a company that provides ‗tips

from the safari expert‘.

In daily life Johan writes about African safaris and is highly engaged in social

media.

Website: www.planyoursafari.com

Twitter: twitter.com/planyoursafaris

Facebook: Plan Your Safari


http://www.planyoursafari.com/

http://twitter.com/planyoursafaris

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Plan-Your-Safari/89083335320?ref=search&sid=880180642.1607622781..1




Michelle Lewis, Acacia Africa.

Australian.

Worked in National Parks in Oz before I moved overseas 10 years ago.

My name is Michelle Lewis and I have been living and working in Africa for

the past 7 years mainly as a tour guide for an overland company - between

9-11 African countries. From this I have had the opportunity to write

amazing trip stories, see and guide (up to 24 clients at one time) in culture

experiences, History, Geography, Geology and Flora and Fauna in all of the

countries I have visited. I have also lived in Zimbabwe/Zambia.

Website: www.acacia-africa.com

Twitter: twitter.com/acaciaafrica

Facebook: Acacia Adventure Holidays


http://www.acacia-africa.com/

http://twitter.com/acaciaafrica

http://www.facebook.com/Acacia.Africa?v=wall&ref=ts




Heidi Podjavorsek, African Travel Inc.

A Slovenian native, Heidi Podjavorsek was born, raised, and educated in

Germany, holding a degree in tourism marketing. She speaks seven

languages and, as a passionate world explorer, has traveled to more than 40

countries, many of which are in Africa. She currently resides in Los Angeles,

California and as Director of Sales & Marketing at African Travel, Inc., a

luxury tour operator focusing solely on Africa, she loves to share her

enthusiasm for Africa.

Website: www.africantravelinc.com

Twitter: @safari2africa and @AfricanTraveler

Facebook: African Travel


http://www.africantravelinc.com/

http://twitter.com/safari2Africa

http://twitter.com/AfricanTraveler

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Glendale-CA/African-Travel/90618028815#/pages/Glendale-CA/African-Travel/90618028815?v=wall




Sandy Salle, Hills of Africa.

Sandy Salle is CEO and co-owner of Hills of Africa Travel. A native of

Zimbabwe, Sandy was born and raised in southern Africa. She believes that the next best thing to living in Africa is sharing it with others.

Hills of Africa Travel specializes in providing customized African safari tours. They offer spectacular adventures with personalized and customized service,

guaranteed to provide you with the experience of a lifetime.

Website: http://www.hillsofafrica.com

Blog: http://www.livethemagicofafrica.com

Twitter: twitter.com/hillsofafrica

Facebook: Hills Of Africa Travel


http://www.hillsofafrica.com/

http://www.livethemagicofafrica.com/

http://twitter.com/hillsofafrica

http://www.facebook.com/hillsofafrica?ref=ts




Michaël Theys, Africafreak.

Africafreak.com founder, and Safari Tips 101 initiator.

A young guy who loves travelling, discovering new horizons and meeting

new people! Curious by nature! Has had the chance to live in Africa for

almost 24 years! Is very fond of wildlife, outdoor adventures and safaris!

Also a great sportsman and the biggest fan of Justine Hénin!

http://www.africafreak.com/



Gerry van der Walt, Photo-Africa.

Gerry van der Walt is a wildlife photographer and field guide currently working in the Madikwe Game Reserve (South Africa). Born and educated in

South Africa, wildlife photography started a passionate journey which soon led to various commercial photographic assignments within the hospitality

and tourism industry. Photographing lodges, hotels and restaurants is great but the passion will always be where it all started. Wildlife & nature

photography.

Website: http://www.photo-africa.com

Twitter: twitter.com/gerryvanderwalt

Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gerryvanderwalt


http://www.photo-africa.com/

http://twitter.com/gerryvanderwalt

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gerryvanderwalt




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Safari tips 101

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